On the market today there are many choices when it comes to countertop materials. Consumers can choose from decorative laminates, to Corian solid surfaces, to a number of different natural stones, such as granite. One countertop option that may live in the shadows of granite is quartz countertops.

Quartz countertops are engineered stone products which are can be used in virtually any indoor surface location. You can even install quartz on walls and floors. Quartz counters are made of 95% natural quartz granules and 5% resins and colorants. The natural properties of quartz crystals and the engineering process give quartz countertops many valuable benefits and characteristics.

Naturally Stunning

Quartz countertops are naturally beautiful. The appearance of quartz surfaces largely depends on the size of the quartz granules used. Finer granules will result in a more consistent appearance. While larger crystals will create a more speckled look, similar to granite countertops. You can find quartz countertops in a wide range of colors. From neutral earth tones to bold bright colors and everything in between you will find a selection that matches your personal taste.

Made Tough to Last Long

Quartz countertops are significantly stronger than granite countertops. They are less vulnerable to chipping and cracking from falling objects. In addition, quartz is inherently scratch resistant from normal wear and tear. In fact there are only three natural stones harder than quartz; topaz, sapphire and diamond. If you accidentally lose your grip of a knife while cutting up vegetables no need to worry about scratches on your new quartz countertops. This wouldn’t however be the case if you had laminate or marble countertops. It is important to point out however quartz is not scratch proof, it is scratch resistant. With an extreme amount weight and force you can damage quartz countertop.

No Scorch Marks Here

If you just lit a candle and placed the match down on the counter without blowing it out first you would expect the match would leave a nasty scorch mark. This would be case with plastic laminates or solid surface materials, but not with quartz countertops. Quartz has the ability to resist short exposure to heat without damage to the surface. Prolonged heat exposure can cause cracking to occur due to the rapid temperature change. To avoid this it is recommended you always use a hot pad or trivet under a crock pot or griddle.

Non-Porous

Quartz countertops are a non-porous surface. This means quartz will not absorb water or other fluids. Being non-porous is the biggest advantage of quartz counters when compared to other natural stone counter materials. This characteristic enhances quartz countertops in a few ways.

No sealing necessary: Granite countertops require a sealer to be applied after installation and reapply regularly to prevent staining. Sealing is not needed for quartz countertops because it is non-porous. Quartz is relatively maintenance free when compared to others countertop materials.

Resistant to bacteria: Growth of bacteria happens when moisture and food penetrates a surface. You will not have to worry about this occurring on your new quartz counters. Since quartz in non-porous bacteria will not grow on it. In fact, NSF International has certified quartz countertops as a safe food preparation surface.

Resistant to staining: Quartz counters will not stain from common kitchen liquids, such as coffee, tea or lemon juice. Granite and other countertop materials will stain if not properly maintained or sealed.

Through the unparalleled strength, stunning appearance and performance, quartz countertops are becoming the first choice for homeowners. If you are looking to replace your old kitchen countertops consider these advantages when making a decision. Compared with other countertop materials on the market quartz is a superior choice and will bring increased value to your home. Happy shopping!

Article by: Matthew Iacopelli has been practicing interior design since 2008. He has worked on projects including, private and government, healthcare, commercial and residential. He started blogging in July 2011 and has built his blog, HLM Interior Design, which is all about helping people find great interior design ideas to bring their homes, offices and lives to the next level.

Image source: Ceasarstones.com

6 Comments

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The fact that you can’t scorch quartz countertops is a big selling point for me. Simply being able to take pots and pans out of the oven or off the stove and put them straight onto the countertop is a great benefit.

Actually there are many options of countertops. Quartz is one of beautiful ones. There are granite, marble, and recycled glass material can be used for countertops. thay are also beautiful. Thanks for sharing

Quartz counter top are very appropriate according to me as i can directly put hot things on it without any hesitation and if some staining has occurred than they can be easily removed and causes no harm to the counter top and above all it is foreign antigen resistant so no fear of unwanted bacteria going inside your stomach and you can directly eat the thing that fell on it